As part of $18 million in grants awarded by Gov. Kay Ivey at the State Capitol Jan. 20 for community improvements, Russellville is receiving $300,000.  

“The project consists of the demolition and removal of dilapidated/vacant structures and cleanup of debris at 11 sites located throughout the city,” explained Russellville Mayor David Grissom. “The total cost of the project is $340,879.80.

“This is another great example of teamwork. Together everyone accomplishes more.”  

Rep. Jamie Kiel said he hopes this effort will encourage future cleanup endeavors in the city.

“I was happy to be able to assist the City of Russellville in obtaining grant funding to clean up the city,” he said. “Blighted property is a nuisance to the neighboring property owners and projects a negative image for the city. It is also dangerous for neighborhood kids who might play in the area.

“I am grateful to Gov. Ivey for her efforts to help make Russellville a better place to live and raise a family.” 

Ivey described Community Development Block Grants as “a means by which local governments can address some of their more pressing needs.”

“I am pleased to award these grants,” Ivey said, “and I commend those local officials who recognized those needs and took the time and effort to seek an answer through this grant program.” 

The CDBG program in Alabama is awarded annually on a competitive basis in several categories: small city, for populations 2,999 or less; large city, for populations 3,000 or more; and county and community enhancement.

Additionally, planning grants are awarded to help local governments examine and address needs. 

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

“I want to thank everyone that helped make this happen,” said Grissom, “and I extend special thanks to Gov. Kay Ivey, ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell, Rep. Jamie Kiel, members of the Russellville City Council, building official Bill Fuller, city clerk Belinda Miller, Keith Jones, Tiffany Boyd, Heath King, NACOLG and everyone that wrote letters of support for the grant.”